July 8, 2010

I’m hearing rumblings that the White Sox are at least kicking tires [on Cliff Lee] — which isn’t surprising, considering their hot streak that has thrust them back into contention, and their GM, Ken Williams, who never shies away from blockbusters.

The White Sox hired Jerry Krause to upgrade their Dominican operation. He’s likely to sign a player or two but it’s asking a lot for him to produce big results when he took the job in April. The best unsigned player, according to scouting reports, is shortstop Esteilon Peguero, who has been heavily pursued by many teams, with Seattle and Texas at the front of the pack.

Ken Williams and his front office hoped Peavy would be back from a torn tendon in his ankle in time to help them chase down the Tigers and Twins, but were toast when he only returned to make three end-of-the-season starts. The White Sox see Peavy as a potential difference-maker in the playoffs, but now it appears he wouldn’t be able to pitch even if they got to the playoffs this season. His strained lat muscle turned into a detached lat under closer inspection on Wednesday, and there’s talk his aching shoulder will also need work. Ouch.